Diplomats from Pacific Island countries visit Fujian

A delegation of 16 participants in the 5th Workshop for Diplomats from Pacific Island Countries visited Fujian province from Oct 20 to 25, traveling to Xiamen, Pingtan, and Fuzhou to learn about the province's economic and social development, cross-Strait integration, and platforms for cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries.

Wei Chang, director-general of the Fujian Provincial Foreign Affairs Office, met with the delegation in Fuzhou. She said Fujian has longstanding ties with Pacific Island countries and a strong foundation for cooperation, and called for closer collaboration in marine fisheries, poverty alleviation, trade, industry, and cultural exchanges.

Teata Terubea, director of Kiribati's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, who represented the participants, said most members of the delegation were visiting China and Fujian for the first time. She added that the visit gave them a better understanding of China, particularly Fujian, and they would support closer exchanges and cooperation between their countries and the province.

In Xiamen and Pingtan, the delegation learned about Fujian's marine research, ocean industries, and maritime cooperation with Pacific Island countries. Visits to research institutions and a maritime rescue vessel introduced them to the province's work in ocean science, island conservation, and emergency response.

In Fuzhou, the focus shifted to practical cooperation in poverty alleviation, agriculture, and public security. At Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, participants learned about the application of Juncao technology in Pacific Island countries.